How to Choose a New Southeastern Massachusetts Veterinarian
Whether you are new to the South Coast area or new to pet ownership, it is essential to learn how to find the best veterinarian for your family pets. A regular veterinary check-up and required vaccinations are just the beginning to establish a lifelong commitment to health and quality care. Recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors can go a long way, but careful research and basic knowledge of what is required to get the best vet care for cats and dogs is also essential. Make sure to select a Southeastern Massachusetts veterinarian that offers all of the services, support, and convenience that you require. Anchor Animal Hospital provides check-ups, vaccinations, preventive treatments, surgical services and serves as a qualified Dartmouth emergency vet for urgent care situations.
Your New Vet Should Have Lots of Experience
Not just as a veterinarian but also as a vet who focuses on providing care for your particular type of pet. If you have an iguana, you need to make sure that the clinic has experience with reptiles in order to ensure the best quality care. The same holds true with finding someone who offers vet care for cats and dogs. You wouldn’t want to bring your puppy to a place that focuses primarily on birds and reptiles but only minimally works with feline or canine patients. Not only would they not be able to offer many of the specific services you will need that focus primarily on your pet, but the waiting room situation might get a bit dicey. Many veterinarians today specialize in treating specific types of animals, so it is a good idea to call first and find out more about the clinic’s experience and specialties.
Make Sure Your New Vet is Properly Licensed
While you might assume that because a Southeastern Massachusetts veterinarian has an office or clinic within the state, that means they are licensed within the state, as well. However, that is not always the case. Make sure that your new Dartmouth emergency vet clinic is run by veterinarians, vet tech assistants, and other personnel who are properly licensed and registered to work in Massachusetts. While many post their certifications, licensing, and additional information in the office or on their website, you can also ask to see their licensing or contact the state board of veterinary medicine directly if you are ever in doubt. It pays to be safe when taking your pet to a new clinic for a veterinary check-up or any type of treatment.
Find Out Their Methods and Approach to Care
Just like pet owners, veterinarians can vary widely in their approach and the methods that are used. While you might be coming from another state where you had a vet that focused on prevention and wellness, the new vet might not work in the same way. Holistic care, preventive services, quality of life treatments, and other services can be essential to your pet’s well-being as they go through the various stages of life. If you come across a new vet that does not think the same way that you do about veterinary health and treatment, you need to keep looking until you find one that suits your needs. You can browse websites, contact front desk staff, or call and ask to speak with the veterinarian to learn more about the type of services they offer and their methods for lifetime care.
Things to Look for on a First Visit
Even if the new veterinarian checks all the boxes and you schedule the first appointment, it does not mean that you’ve found the perfect match. When you bring your pet in to receive vet care for cats and dogs, be aware of how you and your pet feel at the clinic. Is your pet at ease, do you feel comfortable in the environment, and how do you both react to the veterinarian and staff? How close is the Dartmouth emergency vet to your location? What are the costs compared to what you are used to, and is the service affordable? The cleanliness of the facility is also essential, as medical services are provided there, just as they would be at a doctor’s office or hospital for humans.
Contact Anchor Animal Hospital in Dartmouth to schedule a veterinary check-up with our team. Since 1975, we have earned a solid reputation for providing quality vet care for cats and dogs, as well as rabbits and other domesticated pets. Our veterinary team believes in compassion and excellent communication with our clients. We utilize the latest techniques and technology to ensure the highest quality medicine, surgery, and preventive veterinary services for your pet. Give us a call at 508-996-3731 to speak with one of our team members or learn more about our Southeastern Massachusetts veterinarian team and Dartmouth emergency vet clinic.